What Shoes to Wear with a Ball Gown Wedding Dress？

When choosing shoes for a ball gown wedding dress, the goal is to enhance the drama and elegance of the gown while ensuring comfort and style. Below, BRIDALVENUS will analyse the key factors to consider based on current trends and expert advice.

Heel types: heels vs. sandals

There is general consensus that heels are the most versatile and popular choice for ball gown wedding dress. They look stylish and sophisticated, and complement the fluffiness of the dress. Pointed or almond-shaped heels are particularly flattering and add a touch of sophistication.

Advantages of pumps:

• Classic and timeless, they are often seen in bridal fashion (e.g. Cinderella-style heels).

• They often blend perfectly with the skirt of the ball gown wedding dress and do not distract from it.

• Pumps made of satin, silk or velvet often match the formal fabrics of wedding dresses.

Although lace-up sandals are also possible, especially for more modern or summer weddings, they may not offer the same level of sophistication and maturity as closed-toe heels.

Materials and decorations

The material of the shoes plays an important role in the overall aesthetic. Satin, silk and even lace are good choices, as they reflect the luxurious texture of most ball gown wedding dress. If your gown has intricate beading or embroidery, shoes with embellishments such as crystals, pearls or lace details can complement the gown's decorations.

If your gown has a shimmering hem or delicate beading, matching your shoes with similar embellishments can create a unified, sophisticated look.

Comfort and fit

Since you'll likely be standing for long periods of time, you should never sacrifice comfort for fashion. Stilettos or low heels offer more comfort and stability while still being fashionable. Look for shoes with padded insoles or built-in arch support, especially if you plan to stand or dance for long periods of time.

Popular shoe styles:

• Pointed heels: enhance the appearance, elongate the legs and go perfectly with long dresses.

• Kitten heels: a fashionable and comfortable option for brides who want to look a little taller without compromising on comfort.

• Chunky heels: help to improve stability, especially for outdoor weddings or uneven ground.

Harmony of colours and styles

The colour of the shoes should complement or echo the overall colour scheme of the wedding dress. Classic ivory, white or nude shoes are popular for their timeless elegance, while metallic shades such as gold, silver or rose gold add a modern touch and enhance the overall look.

If your dress is a soft ivory or champagne colour, then nude or blush-coloured shoes can create a seamless look without distracting from the dress. For a more dramatic effect, especially with a simpler dress, a splash of colour on the shoes can be a highlight.

Consider height

Since ball gowns often have long skirts, the height of the heel must be considered to avoid the dress dragging on the floor or looking too bulky. A heel height of around 2-3 inches is usually ideal for most ball gown silhouettes, providing enough support without overpowering the proportions of the dress.

Trends and options

• Personalised shoes: Many brides are opting for more playful or personalised shoes these days, such as customised trainers or shoes with bold colours and patterns, especially if the wedding has a relaxed or modern vibe.

• Luxurious materials: Velvet and satin are becoming increasingly popular for their richness and texture, especially when paired with a show-stopping ball gown wedding dress.

Final advice

When it comes to ball gown wedding dresses, the best shoes are often the ones that are stylish, elegant and practical. While pumps (especially satin or decorated ones) remain a classic, comfortable options such as kitten heels or block heels are becoming increasingly popular due to their ease of wear. Consider the fabric, colour and heel height that best suit your dress and the overall wedding theme. Finally, remember to prioritise comfort, especially if you will be standing for long periods of time.

By choosing the right shoes, you can give your ball gown wedding dress an unforgettable overall look on your big day.